5 Tile Terms You Need to Know

If you’re shopping for new tiles, you might be wondering why some tiles are designated for specific applications like kitchens, bathrooms, or laundry rooms. Below, we’ve highlighted a few key terms to familiarize yourself with, and why they matter in your search for the perfect tile.

Floor Tiles vs. Wall Tiles

These manufacturer specifications designate whether a tile is suitable for floors or walls. Floor tiles are treated and durable, meaning they’re less susceptible to cracks and scratches and can withstand the impact and abrasion of regular foot-traffic. Floor tiles can be used on walls, but wall tiles cannot be used on floors.

Abrasion Resistance

Abrasion resistance is a tile’s ability to withstand foot traffic and friction — it not only indicates whether a tile is suitable for floor-use, but also the level of floor-use. The Porcelain Enamel Institute (PEI) scale ranges from level 0 (only suitable for walls) to level 5 (suitable for heavy commercial use).

Slip Resistance

The R rating quantifies a tile’s resistance to slipping when dry or wet. The lowest level, R9, indicates that a tile should only be used for indoor, dry areas, while the highest level, R13, indicates that a tile can be used in areas with constant water exposure. Kitchen, shower, and bathroom tiles have high R ratings, which mitigates the risk of a slip or fall.

Water Absorption

A tile’s water absorption rate is another factor that determines a tile’s suitability for wet environments. The water absorption rating ranges from less than 0.5% (high density) to more than 7% (low density). When used in wet areas, tiles with high absorption rates can become susceptible to cracks and mold growth.

Stain Resistance

This is the measurement of a tile’s resistance to staining — this indicates whether a tile is suitable for kitchens, countertops, and other areas that are likely to come into contact with something that will leave a stain. Staining classifications range from class 1 (stains cannot be removed) to class 5 (stains can be removed with water).

If you’re seeking high-quality tiles and reliable advice, contact our experts at Trini Tile today.